Utilization of YouTube as a Tool to Assess Patient Perception Regarding Implanted Cardiac Devices

The outreach of YouTube may have a dramatic role in the widespread dissemination of knowledge on implantable cardioverter devices (ICD).

This study was designed to review and analyze the information available on YouTube pertaining to implantable cardiac devices such as implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and pacemakers.

YouTube was queried for the terms "ICD", "Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator", and "Pacemaker". The videos were reviewed and categorized as according to content; number of views and "likes" or "dislikes" was recorded by two separate observers.

Of the 55 videos reviewed, 18 of the videos were categorized as patient education, 12 were advertisements, 8 were intraoperative videos documenting the device implantation procedures, 7 of the videos were produced to document personal patient experiences, and 4 were categorized as documentation of a public event. 3 were intended to educate health care workers. The remaining 3 were intended to raise public awareness about sudden cardiac death. The videos portraying intraoperative procedures generated the most "likes" or "dislikes" per view.

While YouTube provides a logical platform for delivery of health information, the information on this platform is not regulated. Initiative by reputed authorities and posting accurate information in such platform can be a great aid in public education regarding device therapy.